Translucent White Porcelain
Renowned for its luminous white surface, Arita porcelain combines lightness and durability.Its delicate white base enhances the brilliance of every color applied.
NOBU-Arita Ware
The pinnacle of Japanese porcelain, carrying 400 years of heritage and beauty.
Arita ware, first produced in 1616 in Arita, Saga Prefecture, stands as Japan's most celebrated porcelain tradition. It began when the Korean potter Yi Sam-pyeong discovered high-quality porcelain stone in the Izumiyama area. For over 400 years, Arita artisans have refined their craft, combining precision, beauty, and innovation admired around the world.
History and Heritage
Arita ware originated in the early 17th century under the influence of Chinese and Korean pottery. By the Edo period, artisans had developed their own distinctive style — vibrant, multi-colored porcelain known as Iroe (color overglaze painting). By the late 1600s, Arita ware was exported to Europe under the name "Imari ware," cherished by royal families and collectors as a symbol of Japanese artistry.
Craftsmanship and Process
Every Arita piece is the result of meticulous, handcrafted artistry. From mining porcelain stone and shaping the clay, to bisque firing, underglaze painting, glazing, overglaze decoration, and the final kiln firing — each step demands precision and years of skill. The hand-painting process, done with the finest brushes, ensures that no two pieces are ever exactly alike.
The Beauty of Arita
Exquisite Hand-Painting
Arita ware is known for both Sometsuke (indigo blue underglaze) and Iroe (multi-colored overglaze) designs.Each brushstroke reflects the individuality of the craftsman, giving every piece a unique charm.
Practical Elegance for Modern Living
While rooted in centuries-old tradition, Arita ware is designed for contemporary life — many items are dishwasher and microwave safe, making them as functional as they are beautiful.
Arita Ware in the Modern Era
Experience the “Tradition × Modern” world through this video.
Blending tradition with modern sensibility, today's Arita artisans continue to innovate through collaborations with contemporary designers. Each piece expresses harmony between heritage and modernity, connecting Japan's timeless beauty with homes around the world. At NOBU, we curate exceptional Arita ware that embodies this spirit — art you can live with, every day.
NOBU Arita Collection
Discover our carefully selected Arita ware collection — authentic works of Japanese craftsmanship that bring elegance and serenity to your table.
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